Gas Utility Project Engineer

Position Overview

The City of Palo Alto Utilities – the only city in California offering a full range of utility services – has over 100 years of successful public operations. Join the City as a Project Engineer to shape safety standards, lead innovative projects, and ensure the efficiency of vital gas systems for our community. Applications are continuously accepted, with the first review on October 6, 2025.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage public contracts and oversee Capital Improvement Projects for natural gas distribution facilities.
• Assist with safety inspections conducted by state and federal regulators.
• Contribute to the development of WGW Utility Standards and support Engineering and Operations staff.
• Create engineering designs for natural gas distribution system improvements using AutoCAD, GIS, and Synergi Gas.
• Research as‐built information, record data, and collect GPS survey data for existing facilities.
• Provide technical guidance on gas distribution to Engineers, Engineering Associates, and Assistants.
• Implement gas distribution CIP projects and safety improvements by collaborating with contractors, City departments, and regulatory agencies.
• Perform field checks and inspections to ensure adherence to Utility Standards and project plans.
• Develop materials standards, equipment specifications, and operating procedures; use hydraulic models for system planning and recommend improvements.
• Write, review, and edit Staff Reports to City Council and other engineering reports; handle project-related inquiries professionally.

Required Qualifications

• Strong technical background in natural gas distribution or transmission engineering principles.
• A B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution (or an equivalent engineering discipline such as civil when appropriate), with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering.
• At least 10 years of experience in natural gas distribution or transmission, or equivalent four years of increasingly responsible engineering experience.
• Experience interpreting and applying the Code of Federal Regulations, specifically Title 49, Parts 190, 191, 192, and 199.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and other industry-standard drafting tools, with strong foundational drafting skills.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills along with strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California and possession of a valid California Driver's License.
• Note: A PE Certificate or Master's Degree in Engineering may be considered in lieu of one year of experience.

Benefits & Perks

• Benefits: Fantastic benefits package including affordable healthcare plans, generous retirement packages, paid parental leave, convenient commuter programs, and more.
• Compensation (SEIU): Comprehensive compensation plan. Depending on qualifications, the position may be filled at either Project Engineer ($160,451.20 - $196,560.00 Annually) or Engineer ($149,240.00 - $182,811.20 Annually).
• 9/80 work schedule (with every other Friday off).
• Union representation by Service Employee International Union (SEIU).